Ronnie James Dio DEAD at 67

The legend RONNIE JAMES DIO is dead at the age of 67, according to a statement from his wife and manager.

DIO revealed last summer that he was suffering from stomach cancer shortly after wrapping up a tour in Atlantic City, N.J., with the latest incarnation of BLACK SABBATH, under the name HEAVEN AND HELL.

“Today my heart is broken,” Wendy Dio wrote on the singer’s site, adding he died at 7:45 a.m. “Many, many friends and family were able to say their private goodbyes before he peacefully passed away.

“Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all,” Wendy Dio continued. “We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us … Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever.”

The statement was confirmed by Los Angeles publicist Maureen O’Connor. DIO was being treated at a Houston hospital, according to his site.

Though DIO had recently undergone his seventh chemotherapy treatment, he was hopeful to perform again. Earlier this month, HEAVEN AND HELL canceled its summer tour, but Dio did not view being sidelined as a permanent thing.

“Wendy, my doctors and I have worked so hard to make it happen for all of you, the ones we care so much about, that this setback could be devastating, but we will not let it be,” he said in a statement. “With your continued love and support, we … will carry on and thrive. There will be other tours, more music, more life and much more magic.”

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